YB Wong Hon Wai
By V. Sivaji
Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai hailed the whopping 132% increase in tourist arrivals in Penang for 2022 vs 2021
He also cited the increase in hotel occupancy by 323% or 4.3 million visitors compared to the same period.
He was speaking at the Penang State Assembly sitting session to share highlights of the tourism industry.
“Based on Tourism Malaysia records we have records, we have also registered a total of 5.59 million visitors compared to 4.26 visitors in 2021.
“I also cite the efforts of Penang Global Tourism (PGT) and Penang Exhibition & Convention Bureau (PCEB) in their efforts to promote the state locally and internationally.
Among the promotions include showcasing Penang at international tourism meets and gatherings and attracting major seminars and meetings to Penang.
“This also includes promotions like Re-Experience Penang to promote The Other Side of The Island – Balik Pulau dan
The Opposite Side of The Island – Seberang Perai. They have also helped promote homestay and out of the city activities.
Other activities include the Penang International Food Festival 2023 at Bertam Vision Park, Kampung Terus Penanti, Batu Maung and Batu Kawan.
“We are also promoting eco-tourism at Taman Rimba Bukit Mertajam, Taman Negeri Bukit Panchor and cultural attractions at Seberang Perai too,” added Wong.
The resumption of direct flights by Xiamen Airlines, Qatar Airways and Firefly from Bangkok has also contributed to tourist arrivals via the Penang International Airport (PIA).
With regards to this matter, Middle East carrier, Flydubai is also expected to fly directly to Penang in Feb 2024.